On the other hand, developments made in extracting maximum power from a minimum of space and weight with the F1 electric-hybrid system could eventually find their way into the company's road-going cars, though the cost is likely to be prohibitive for the near-term.

The most significant element of this huge effort will be the development of the 1.5-litre hybrid engine revealed in the Vision EfficientDynamics. The three-cylinder unit will be paired with a powerful electric motor – together both will offer more than 350bhp and 800Nm of torque.

To save fuel, top speed will remain electronically limited to around 155mph. However, the 0-60mph sprint is expected to take less than five seconds.

To make the most of this raw speed, the M1 will be equipped with BMW’s Air Curtain system. This arrangement channels airflow through the front bumper and out ahead of the front wheels. It reduces turbulence in the wheelarches and cuts the car’s drag coefficient to 0.22Cd – the lowest of any BMW. Subtle folds in the bodywork will also create downforce without the need to use large spoilers.